Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. An input device comprising: a housing comprising a lower portion and an upper portion; a depressible button provided in the upper portion; a first magnetic component mounted on the depressible button and configured to move at least substantially along an axis when the depressible button is depressed; a second magnetic component coupled to the lower portion at least substantially at the axis, wherein at least one of the first magnetic component and the second magnetic component comprises an electromagnet; an interface configured to receive control information from a computing device external to the input device; and a control circuit configured to control the electromagnet based on the control information; wherein the control information activates or deactivates at least one electromagnet for a pre-determined time after activation of the depressible button.
This invention relates to input devices and addresses the problem of providing enhanced tactile feedback or control in response to user interaction. The input device includes a housing with a lower and an upper portion. A depressible button is located in the upper portion. A first magnetic component is attached to the depressible button and moves along an axis when the button is pressed. A second magnetic component is fixed to the lower portion, aligned with the axis of movement of the first magnetic component. At least one of these magnetic components is an electromagnet. An interface allows the device to receive control information from an external computing device. A control circuit uses this information to manage the electromagnet. Specifically, the control information can activate or deactivate the electromagnet for a set duration after the depressible button is pressed. This allows for dynamic control of magnetic forces, potentially providing varied tactile sensations or enabling new interaction paradigms.
2. The input device of claim 1 , wherein the control circuit is configured to control the electromagnet to adjust a click force and/or a rebound force of the depressible button and is connected to a switch for activating and deactivating the electromagnet.
This invention relates to an input device with an adjustable click mechanism, addressing the need for customizable tactile feedback in electronic devices. The device includes a depressible button, an electromagnet, and a control circuit. The electromagnet is positioned to interact with the button, generating a magnetic force that influences its movement. The control circuit regulates the electromagnet to adjust the click force and rebound force of the button, allowing users to modify the tactile response based on preference or application requirements. The control circuit is also connected to a switch that activates or deactivates the electromagnet, enabling dynamic control over the button's behavior. This design enhances user experience by providing adaptable haptic feedback, which is particularly useful in devices where input responsiveness must be tailored to different tasks or user needs. The system may be integrated into keyboards, touchpads, or other input interfaces where precise and customizable tactile feedback is desired. The electromagnet's adjustable force ensures flexibility in achieving the desired click and rebound characteristics, while the switch allows for seamless activation and deactivation of the magnetic effect.
3. The input device of claim 1 , wherein the control circuit is configured to at least one of control the electromagnet to provide a constant offset force to a click force of the depressible button or control the electromagnet based on an activation of the depressible button.
This invention relates to an input device with an electromagnetically enhanced depressible button, addressing the need for improved tactile feedback and customizable user interaction in electronic devices. The device includes a depressible button mechanically coupled to a movable element, an electromagnet positioned to interact with the movable element, and a control circuit connected to the electromagnet. The control circuit is configured to either apply a constant offset force to the button's click force or dynamically adjust the electromagnet's operation based on the button's activation. The constant offset force modifies the button's resistance, enhancing tactile feedback, while dynamic control allows for variable force responses, such as simulating different button depths or resistance levels. The electromagnet's interaction with the movable element provides precise force modulation, improving user experience in applications like gaming, medical devices, or industrial controls. The invention enables customizable haptic responses without mechanical complexity, addressing limitations in traditional mechanical buttons.
4. The input device of claim 1 , wherein the control circuit is configured to control the electromagnet to adjust a speed of returning of the depressible button to an un-depressed state before activation of the depressible button.
This invention relates to an input device with a depressible button and an electromagnet that controls the button's return speed before activation. The device includes a depressible button movable between a depressed and an un-depressed state, an electromagnet, and a control circuit. The electromagnet generates a magnetic force to influence the button's movement. The control circuit adjusts the electromagnet's operation to modify the button's return speed to the un-depressed state before the button is fully depressed and activated. This allows for dynamic control of the button's tactile feedback, improving user experience by adjusting resistance or responsiveness based on application needs. The invention addresses the problem of static or inflexible button behavior in traditional input devices, where return speed is fixed, limiting adaptability to different user preferences or operational contexts. By dynamically adjusting the return speed, the device can provide customized feedback, such as simulating different button types or adjusting sensitivity in response to environmental factors. The electromagnet's magnetic force can be modulated to create varying levels of resistance or assistive force, enhancing precision and control. This solution is particularly useful in applications requiring fine-tuned input, such as gaming controllers, industrial interfaces, or medical devices, where tactile feedback must be tailored to specific tasks or user requirements.
5. The input device of claim 1 , wherein the interface is further configured to communicate user input received at the input device to the computing device.
The invention relates to an input device designed to enhance user interaction with computing systems. The device addresses the need for efficient and reliable communication of user inputs to a computing device, ensuring seamless integration and responsiveness. The input device includes an interface that facilitates bidirectional communication between the device and the computing system. This interface is capable of transmitting user input data, such as keystrokes, touch gestures, or other interaction signals, to the computing device in real-time. The interface may also receive feedback or commands from the computing device, enabling dynamic adjustments to the input device's functionality. The device may incorporate various input mechanisms, such as keyboards, touchpads, or sensors, to capture user actions accurately. The interface ensures compatibility with different computing systems by supporting standardized communication protocols, allowing for broad applicability across devices. The invention improves user experience by reducing latency and ensuring consistent input recognition, making it suitable for applications requiring high precision, such as gaming, design, or productivity tasks.
6. The input device of claim 1 , wherein the interface comprises at least one of universal serial bus or Bluetooth.
The invention relates to an input device designed to interface with a computing system, addressing the need for versatile and reliable connectivity options. The device includes an interface that supports at least one of Universal Serial Bus (USB) or Bluetooth, enabling seamless communication with various computing systems. USB provides a wired connection, offering high-speed data transfer and stable power delivery, while Bluetooth enables wireless connectivity, reducing cable clutter and enhancing mobility. The interface ensures compatibility with different systems, allowing users to switch between wired and wireless modes based on their preferences or environmental constraints. This dual-connectivity approach enhances flexibility, making the input device suitable for diverse applications, including gaming, office work, and multimedia tasks. The design prioritizes ease of use, ensuring that users can connect the device without complex setup procedures. By integrating these widely adopted communication protocols, the invention simplifies the interaction between input devices and computing systems, improving user experience and operational efficiency.
7. The input device of claim 1 , wherein the control information is user-definable in the computing device.
This invention relates to an input device for a computing system, specifically addressing the need for customizable control information to enhance user interaction. The input device includes a sensor configured to detect user input, such as gestures or movements, and a processor that interprets this input to generate control signals for the computing device. The key innovation is the ability to define and modify the control information within the computing device itself, allowing users to tailor the device's functionality to their preferences or specific applications. For example, a user could reassign gestures to different commands or adjust sensitivity settings directly through the computing device's software, eliminating the need for external programming tools or hardware modifications. This flexibility ensures adaptability across various use cases, from gaming to productivity tasks, while maintaining seamless integration with the computing device's operating system. The system may also include feedback mechanisms, such as haptic or visual responses, to confirm user inputs and enhance the overall interaction experience. By enabling user-defined control information, the invention improves usability and personalization, addressing limitations of fixed-function input devices.
8. A method for controlling an input device, the input device comprising a housing comprising a lower portion and an upper portion, a depressible button provided in the upper portion, a first magnetic component mounted on the depressible button and configured to move at least substantially along an axis when the depressible button is depressed, and a second magnetic component coupled to the lower portion at least substantially at the axis, wherein at least one of the first magnetic component and the second magnetic component comprises an electromagnet; the method comprising: receiving control information from a computing device external to the input device via an interface; and controlling the electromagnet based on the control information; wherein the control information activates or deactivates at least one electromagnet for a pre-determined time after activation of the depressible button.
This invention relates to input devices, specifically those with depressible buttons and magnetic components, addressing the challenge of dynamically controlling button behavior in response to external signals. The input device includes a housing with a lower and upper portion, a depressible button in the upper portion, a first magnetic component attached to the button, and a second magnetic component fixed to the lower portion. At least one of these magnetic components is an electromagnet. The method involves receiving control information from an external computing device via an interface and adjusting the electromagnet based on this input. The control information can activate or deactivate the electromagnet for a predefined duration after the button is pressed, enabling programmable resistance or feedback. This allows the button's mechanical response to be modified in real-time, such as simulating different actuation forces or providing haptic feedback. The system enhances user interaction by dynamically altering button behavior without physical modifications, useful in gaming controllers, industrial interfaces, or accessibility devices. The electromagnet's state is controlled externally, enabling adaptive input responses tailored to specific applications or user preferences.
9. The method of claim 8 , further comprising: controlling the electromagnet to adjust a click force and/or a rebound force of the depressible button.
A method for enhancing user interaction with a depressible button in an electronic device involves controlling an electromagnet to adjust the tactile feedback characteristics of the button. The button is mechanically coupled to a movable element, such as a plunger or spring-loaded mechanism, which interacts with the electromagnet to provide physical resistance and feedback when pressed. The electromagnet generates a magnetic field that influences the movement of the movable element, allowing dynamic adjustment of the button's click force—the force required to depress the button—and rebound force—the force that returns the button to its original position after release. By modulating the electromagnet's current or field strength, the system can vary these forces to achieve different tactile sensations, such as a firmer or softer click, or a faster or slower rebound. This method enables customizable haptic feedback tailored to user preferences or application-specific requirements, improving usability and responsiveness in devices like keyboards, touchscreens, or gaming controllers. The electromagnet may be integrated into the button assembly or positioned nearby to interact with a ferromagnetic component of the movable element. The system may also include sensors to detect button position or pressure, allowing real-time adjustments based on user input or system conditions.
10. The method of claim 8 , further comprising: controlling the electromagnet to provide a constant offset force to a click force of the depressible button.
A method for enhancing user interaction with a depressible button in electronic devices addresses the challenge of providing consistent tactile feedback. The method involves controlling an electromagnet to apply a constant offset force to the natural click force of the button. This adjustment ensures that the button's tactile response remains uniform, improving user experience by reducing variability in perceived resistance or feedback during depression. The electromagnet is dynamically regulated to maintain the offset force, compensating for mechanical inconsistencies or environmental factors that might otherwise affect the button's performance. This approach is particularly useful in devices where precise and reliable tactile feedback is critical, such as gaming controllers, industrial interfaces, or medical equipment. By integrating electromagnetically controlled force modulation, the method enables finer control over button behavior, enhancing both functionality and user satisfaction. The system may include sensors to monitor button displacement or force, allowing real-time adjustments to the electromagnet's output to sustain the desired offset force. This ensures that the button's response remains consistent across different operating conditions and usage scenarios.
11. The method of claim 8 , further comprising: controlling the electromagnet based on an activation of the depressible button.
A system and method for controlling an electromagnet in response to user input. The technology domain involves electromechanical devices where precise control of an electromagnet is required, such as in locking mechanisms, robotic grippers, or automated systems. The problem addressed is the need for reliable and user-triggered activation of an electromagnet to perform specific functions, such as locking, unlocking, or gripping, without requiring complex external control systems. The method involves a depressible button that, when activated, triggers the electromagnet to engage or disengage. The electromagnet is part of a larger system that may include a locking mechanism, a robotic arm, or another electromechanical device. The button provides a direct and intuitive way for a user to control the electromagnet, ensuring that the device responds immediately to manual input. The system may also include sensors or feedback mechanisms to confirm the electromagnet's state, ensuring proper operation. The electromagnet is controlled by an electrical circuit that receives input from the depressible button. When the button is pressed, the circuit activates the electromagnet, causing it to generate a magnetic field. This field interacts with a movable component, such as a latch or a robotic gripper, to perform the desired action. The system may also include safety features, such as a timeout or a secondary confirmation, to prevent unintended activation. This method improves usability by allowing direct user control over the electromagnet, reducing the need for external interfaces or complex programming. It is particularly useful in applications where quick, manual activation is required, such as in emergency release mechanisms or portable locking devices.
12. The method of claim 11 , further comprising: controlling the electromagnet to adjust a speed of returning of the depressible button to an un-depressed state before activation of the depressible button.
This invention relates to electromechanical systems involving a depressible button and an electromagnet for controlling its movement. The problem addressed is the need to precisely regulate the return speed of the button to its un-depressed state before activation, ensuring consistent and controlled operation. The system includes a depressible button that can be activated by a user, an electromagnet positioned to interact with the button, and a control mechanism that adjusts the electromagnet's operation. The electromagnet generates a magnetic field to influence the button's movement, particularly its return speed after being depressed. The control mechanism monitors the button's position and dynamically adjusts the electromagnet's current or field strength to achieve the desired return speed. This ensures the button resets predictably, improving user experience and system reliability. The invention may be applied in devices requiring precise button actuation, such as electronic switches, keypads, or input interfaces where consistent response times are critical. The electromagnet's adjustable control allows for customization based on different operational requirements, such as varying resistance levels or environmental conditions. The overall system enhances the functionality and performance of depressible button mechanisms by integrating electromagnetic control for optimized return behavior.
13. The method of claim 8 , further comprising: communicating user input received at the input device to the computing device via the interface.
A system and method for interfacing between a computing device and an input device, such as a keyboard, mouse, or touchpad, to facilitate user interaction. The invention addresses the need for efficient and reliable communication between input devices and computing systems, particularly in scenarios where latency, signal integrity, or compatibility issues may arise. The method involves establishing a communication interface between the input device and the computing device, where the interface may be wired or wireless, and may employ protocols such as USB, Bluetooth, or proprietary standards. The interface ensures that signals generated by the input device are accurately transmitted to the computing device, allowing for responsive and precise user control. Additionally, the method includes processing the received input signals to interpret user actions, such as keystrokes, clicks, or gestures, and translating them into commands or data that the computing device can execute or utilize. The system may also include error detection and correction mechanisms to maintain communication reliability. The invention further includes communicating user input received at the input device to the computing device via the interface, ensuring seamless and uninterrupted interaction. This method is particularly useful in applications requiring high precision, such as gaming, design software, or industrial control systems, where input responsiveness and accuracy are critical.
14. The method of claim 8 , wherein the interface comprises at least one of universal serial bus or Bluetooth.
A system and method for wireless or wired data communication between devices using a standardized interface. The invention addresses the need for seamless connectivity between electronic devices, such as smartphones, computers, and peripherals, by providing a flexible interface that supports multiple communication protocols. The interface includes at least one of Universal Serial Bus (USB) or Bluetooth, enabling both wired and wireless data transfer. USB provides high-speed, low-latency communication over a physical connection, while Bluetooth allows wireless connectivity with reduced power consumption. The system ensures compatibility across different devices by adhering to widely adopted standards, eliminating the need for proprietary adapters or drivers. The method involves detecting the type of interface available, establishing a connection, and managing data transmission to optimize performance and reliability. This approach simplifies device pairing, reduces setup time, and enhances user experience by supporting multiple communication modes within a single framework. The invention is particularly useful in consumer electronics, IoT devices, and industrial applications where interoperability and ease of use are critical.
15. The method of claim 8 , wherein the control information is user-definable in the computing device.
A system and method for managing control information in a computing device addresses the challenge of inflexible or hardcoded control settings that limit user customization. The invention provides a mechanism where control information, which governs the operation of the computing device, can be defined or modified by the user. This allows users to tailor the device's behavior to their specific needs, improving usability and adaptability. The control information may include parameters, settings, or rules that influence how the device processes data, interacts with other systems, or executes tasks. By enabling user-defined control information, the invention enhances the device's functionality and user experience, making it more versatile across different applications and environments. The system ensures that user-defined settings are properly validated and applied, maintaining system stability while allowing for customization. This approach is particularly useful in environments where predefined configurations do not meet all user requirements, such as in specialized industrial, medical, or consumer applications. The invention may be implemented in software, firmware, or hardware, depending on the specific requirements of the computing device.
16. A non-transitory computer readable medium comprising program instructions which when executed by a processor cause the processor to perform a method for controlling an input device, the input device comprising a housing comprising a lower portion and an upper portion, a depressible button provided in the upper portion, a first magnetic component mounted on the depressible button and configured to move at least substantially along an axis when the depressible button is depressed, and a second magnetic component coupled to the lower portion at least substantially at the axis, wherein at least one of the first magnetic component and the second magnetic component comprises an electromagnet; the method comprising: receiving control information from a computing device external to the input device via an interface; and controlling the electromagnet based on the control information; wherein the control information activates or deactivates at least one electromagnet for a pre-determined time after activation of the depressible button.
This invention relates to an input device with a depressible button and magnetic components for controlling tactile feedback. The device includes a housing with upper and lower portions, a depressible button in the upper portion, a first magnetic component on the button that moves along an axis when pressed, and a second magnetic component fixed to the lower portion along the same axis. At least one of these magnetic components is an electromagnet. The device receives control information from an external computing device via an interface and adjusts the electromagnet based on this input. The control information can activate or deactivate the electromagnet for a predetermined time after the button is pressed, allowing for dynamic tactile feedback or resistance modulation. This system enables programmable haptic responses, such as simulating different button pressures or providing feedback based on software events. The electromagnet's activation can be timed to enhance user interaction, such as confirming a button press or adjusting resistance for different input modes. The invention improves input device functionality by integrating electromagnets with mechanical buttons to create customizable tactile experiences.
17. The non-transitory computer readable medium of claim 16 , further comprising instructions which when executed by a processor cause the processor to perform at least one of: controlling the electromagnet to adjust a click force and/or a rebound force of the depressible button, controlling the electromagnet to provide a constant offset force to a click force of the depressible button, or communicating user input received at the input device to the computing device via the interface.
A system for dynamically adjusting the tactile feedback of a depressible button in an input device, such as a keyboard or mouse, addresses the need for customizable user interaction. The invention uses an electromagnet to modify the mechanical properties of the button, allowing for real-time adjustments to the click force and rebound force. This enables users to tailor the button's responsiveness to their preferences or specific tasks, improving ergonomics and reducing fatigue. The electromagnet can also apply a constant offset force to the button's click force, ensuring consistent feedback regardless of external conditions. Additionally, the system facilitates communication of user input from the input device to a computing device via an interface, ensuring seamless integration with existing hardware. The invention enhances user experience by providing adaptive tactile feedback, which is particularly useful in applications requiring precise or repetitive input. The electromagnet's precise control over button mechanics ensures durability and reliability while maintaining a natural feel. This solution is applicable in various input devices where tactile feedback customization is desired.
18. The non-transitory computer readable medium of claim 16 , further comprising instructions which when executed by a processor cause the processor to perform: controlling the electromagnet based on an activation of the depressible button.
A system for controlling an electromagnet using a depressible button is disclosed. The electromagnet is part of a device that interacts with a movable component, such as a latch or a locking mechanism. The system addresses the need for precise and user-controlled activation of the electromagnet to ensure reliable operation in applications like security systems, industrial machinery, or automated devices. The electromagnet is energized or de-energized in response to a user pressing the depressible button, allowing for manual control over the electromagnet's state. The button may be integrated into a housing or interface, and its activation triggers a signal that is processed by a controller to adjust the electromagnet's power state. This ensures that the electromagnet engages or disengages the movable component as intended, providing a responsive and user-friendly interaction. The system may also include additional features, such as feedback mechanisms to confirm the electromagnet's state or safety measures to prevent unintended activation. The overall design ensures reliable and controlled operation of the electromagnet in various applications where manual intervention is required.
19. The non-transitory computer readable medium of claim 18 , further comprising instructions which when executed by a processor cause the processor to perform controlling the electromagnet to adjust a speed of returning of the depressible button to state before activation of the depressible button.
This invention relates to a non-transitory computer-readable medium containing instructions for controlling an electromagnet in a system with a depressible button. The system addresses the problem of inconsistent or uncontrolled button return behavior after activation, which can affect user experience and device functionality. The medium includes instructions that, when executed by a processor, cause the electromagnet to adjust the speed at which the depressible button returns to its original state before activation. This adjustment ensures a consistent and controlled return motion, improving reliability and user interaction. The electromagnet may be part of a larger mechanism that includes a spring or other biasing element to assist in the button's return. The instructions may also include logic for detecting button activation and determining the appropriate return speed based on factors such as user input, system conditions, or predefined settings. The invention enhances the precision and responsiveness of depressible buttons in electronic devices, ensuring smooth and predictable operation.
Unknown
March 17, 2020
Browse 5M+ US patents with plain-English claim translations and AI-generated analysis.